Pinion tooth count MCI 8V-71 starter? Fixed!

[bevans6]

I am about to order a starter but need to verify the tooth count for the pinion.  I think it's 11 tooth, is that correct?

Brian

[bevans6]

It is 11 tooth, thanks "Luke at US Coach" !     I'm going to try moving the copper disc in the solenoid tomorrow morning.

Brian

[5B Steve]

Brian I sent you a PM.

Steve 5B....

[wg4t50]

Generally Both Cummins & DDC ARE 11 tooth, Cat is 12 tooth.

[bevans6]

Thanks, guys, I appreciate the help!  I'll let you know tomorrow if Luke' s idea to check the copper plate in the solenoid helped or not.  Issue is the starter is cutting out, and kind of stutters as it turns the engine over.  It's warm, the batteries are good, the wiring is new, the starter is getting worse.

Brian

[Chopper Scott]

I found out after 2 rebuilt starters that it was the fuel pressure switch on my filters that was causing the problem.  Basically it grounds out under pressure and enables you to push the start button to bypass the shutdown feature on the bus. Just check that out first. Mine did the same and I spent a lot of money until I figured it out.  Ground the sensor out on the filter housing and see if that helps.

[bevans6]

Scott wins the prize for the fix!  I feel so stupid...  I can't count the number of times I've advised others to check that cut-out switch, and totally forgot to check mine.  It was cutting out and making the starter "stutter".  Same symptom as too little battery, sticking solenoid, worn out starter motor, but at a cost of $0.10 for a new connector on the end of the wire and bolting to chassis ground a far cheaper fix.

Now - do most replace the switch or leave the bypass in place?  Mine is a normally closed switch that provides ground to the starter relay coil, and opens when there is fuel pressure so you can't engage the starter when the engine is running.

Brian

[Len Silva]

Since you are the only driver, it's your call.  It was originally there as an anti-idiot device.

[lostagain]

No fuel pressure switch on mine.

JC

[TomC]

Take the fuel pressure switch off-just another thing to go wrong. I'm sure you're smarter then to grind the starter after the engine is started. Good Luck, TomC